When it comes to classic mystery anime, few series have reached the legendary status of Case Closed, also known as Detective Conan in Japan. Created by Gosho Aoyama, this long-running series has captivated viewers for decades with clever storytelling, memorable characters, and thrilling mysteries. 

First aired in 1996, Case Closed continues to air new episodes to this day, making it one of the longest-running anime series ever.

For fans of crime-solving stories and clever deductions, Case Closed is a must-watch—and the good news is you can stream it for free on Aniwatch, where both subtitled and dubbed episodes are available without registration.

The Plot: A Kid Detective with a Secret

Case Closed follows Shinichi Kudo, a brilliant 17-year-old high school detective known for solving difficult cases that leave even seasoned professionals baffled. One day, while investigating suspicious activity, he is attacked by mysterious men in black and forced to ingest a strange poison. Rather than killing him, the drug shrinks Shinichi’s body into that of a 7-year-old child.

To keep his identity secret and uncover the truth behind the organization that poisoned him, Shinichi adopts the alias Conan Edogawa and goes to live with his childhood friend Ran Mouri, whose father, Kogoro Mouri, is a bumbling private detective. Conan secretly helps Kogoro solve cases, hoping each step will bring him closer to the elusive men in black.

Clever Cases and Classic Structure

Each episode (or arc) of Case Closed typically involves a unique mystery—ranging from murder cases and kidnappings to elaborate heists and locked-room puzzles. The audience is invited to solve the cases alongside Conan as he pieces together the clues with logic and precision.

Although the series follows a mostly episodic format, it also includes several overarching storylines, especially those involving:

• The Black Organization, a secret criminal syndicate responsible for Shinichi’s transformation.
• FBI and CIA agents, who collaborate with Conan to investigate the organization.
• Romantic subplots, particularly between Shinichi and Ran, and other recurring characters.

The consistent format and creative case designs are part of what keeps the show exciting even after hundreds of episodes.

Characters That Define a Generation

The heart of Case Closed lies in its strong and lovable characters:

• Conan Edogawa (Shinichi Kudo): The genius detective trapped in a child’s body.
• Ran Mouri: Shinichi’s childhood friend and love interest, skilled in karate and known for her emotional depth.
• Kogoro Mouri: Ran’s father, a detective whose success mostly comes from Conan’s behind-the-scenes help.
• Ai Haibara: A former Black Organization scientist who also took the shrinking drug and became an ally to Conan.
• The Detective Boys: A group of elementary school friends who often get involved in Conan’s cases.

There’s also a rotating cast of suspects, witnesses, police officers, and criminals that make every new case feel fresh and engaging.

How Many Episodes Does Case Closed Have?

As of 2025, Case Closed has over 1100 episodes, making it one of the most prolific anime series of all time. It also has:

• 27+ theatrical films, many of which are blockbusters in Japan.
• Numerous TV specials, OVAs, and spin-off series like Zero’s Tea Time.
• A manga series still ongoing, with over 100 volumes published and tens of millions of copies sold worldwide.

Despite its age, the show maintains strong viewership and continues to attract new fans, thanks to its accessible storytelling and timeless appeal.

Art Style and Evolution

While the animation in the early episodes has a classic 90s look, the art style has evolved over time with sharper visuals and more fluid animation in recent seasons and movies. The music, including the iconic opening themes and suspenseful case-solving tracks, adds a distinct atmosphere that fans instantly recognize.

Why Case Closed Stands Out

What makes Case Closed unique is its combination of episodic fun and long-term intrigue. Each episode is satisfying on its own, but the slow unraveling of the main plot keeps longtime fans invested. The puzzles are well-crafted, and Conan’s ingenious deductions make viewers feel like they’re part of the mystery.

It also balances humor, romance, and action, making it appealing to a wide audience—from kids who enjoy the cartoonish detective adventures to adults who appreciate the clever writing and emotional undercurrents.

Watch Case Closed on Aniwatch

For anyone interested in watching Case Closed, Aniwatch offers a great platform to start. You can find episodes from different arcs, movies, and specials with English subtitles or dubs, organized for easy navigation. Whether you’re a first-time viewer or a returning fan catching up, Aniwatch provides free and accessible streaming of this legendary anime.

Final Thoughts

Case Closed is more than just a detective anime—it’s a cultural icon that continues to grow and evolve. With its clever mysteries, strong characters, and an ever-expanding universe, it delivers entertainment that’s both smart and heartfelt. Whether you’re in it for the puzzles, the character drama, or the overarching conspiracy, this is a journey worth taking.